This is why we eat mince pies at Christmas

Arguably the best things about Christmas time, mince pies are a must-have throughout the festive countdown.

But how were these treats made and why are they mainly consumed during the Christmas period?

Like Christmas puddings, mince pies were originally filled with actual meat, such as partridge, pheasant, rabbit, pigeon and hare. Over time, they became a sweet treat by replacing the filling with dried fruit mix.

Additionally, the little pastries were originally made in oval shapes to present the manger baby Jesus slept in.

Mince pies were initially a status symbol, as it was usually only the rich that could afford them. To show off their money, the rich would offer pies in various shapes, such as crescents and hearts, to show off their wealth.

They became a popular treat around the festive period thanks to a tradition from the middle ages, which saw people eat a mince pie for 12 days from Christmas day to Twelfth Night. Doing this was believed to bring you happiness for the next 12 months.

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